Single Idea 9035

[catalogued under 15. Nature of Minds / C. Capacities of Minds / 3. Abstraction by mind]

Full Idea

If we are to 'judge' - rightly or not - that this object has a specific characteristic, it would seem that so far as the characteristic is concerned the process of abstraction must already be completed.

Gist of Idea

If judgement of a characteristic is possible, that part of abstraction must be complete

Source

H.H. Price (Thinking and Experience [1953], Ch.III)

Book Reference

Price,H.H.: 'Thinking and Experience' [Hutchinson 1953], p.75


A Reaction

Personally I think Price is right, despite the vicious attack from Geach that looms. We all know the experiences of familiarity, recognition, and identification that go on when see a person or picture. 'What animal is that, in the distance?'